The Audi S1 and S1 Sportback

Sophisticated technologies give the Audi S1* and the Audi S1 Sportback* a dynamism that sets the benchmark in competition – without detracting from the cars everyday practicality. These cars, the most compact S models from Audi, both of which are 3.98 meters (13.1 ft) long, also have quattro permanent all-wheel drive – a strong USP in this segment.

Serving as the engine here is a power-boosted 2.0 TFSI with 170 kW (231 hp) and 370 Nm of torque (272.9 lb-ft), the latter between 1,600 and 3,000 rpm. It accelerates the three-door S1 from 0 to 100 km/h (62.1 mph) in 5.8 seconds; the sprint takes just one-tenth of a second longer for the five-door S1 Sportback. The top speed for each is 250 km/h (155.3 mph). The very responsive two-liter turbocharged engine has a combined fuel consumption of just 7.0 or 7.1 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (33.6 US mpg or 33.1 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of 162 or 166 grams per kilometer (260.7 or 267.2 g/mi).

A six-speed manual transmission transfers engine power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. At its core is the latest generation hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which is mounted on the rear axle for a better weight distribution.

Normally, propulsive forces are directed to the front wheels. As necessary, the efficiently operating multi-plate clutch can transfer power to the rear wheels at lightning speed. The system’s electronic control is configured to be dynamic – it enables spontaneous steering into curves, and controlled drifts are possible on road surfaces with low friction values. Torque vectoring, a function of Electronic Stabilization Control ESC, complements the work of the clutch.

Sophisticated: the four-link rear suspensionThe chassis was thoroughly reworked, and the electro-mechanical power steering system responds with fine sensitivity; it works with a steering ratio of 14.8:1. The pivot bearings of the front suspension were optimized for quick cornering; at the rear, a four-link design is used.

Audi has given the S1 and S1 Sportback a sporty and stiff setup. Switchable shock absorbers are standard. Their management is integrated into the also standard Audi drive select drive dynamic handling system, which also influences the throttle valve, engine sound, automatic climate control system and optional cruise control system. Switching is effected by choosing one of the chassis modes: efficiency, auto or dynamic

ESC adds a sport mode, and ESC can also be completely deactivated. A larger master brake cylinder and large disc brakes – with 310 millimeters (12.2 in) diameter discs in front and 272 millimeters (10.7 in) at the rear – brake the Audi S1 and S1 Sportback spontaneously and confidently. 17-inch wheels are standard; two-tone 18-inch wheels are available as an option.

Two exterior colors – Sepang blue pearl, effect and Vegas yellow – are exclusively available on the S models; the roof line and roof dome are available in four or three contrasting colors. The optional quattro exterior styling package further sharpens the car’s appearance – including a large roof spoiler, red contours (“wings”) in the headlights, a front spoiler with aluminum look lip and quattro logos on the sides.

Cool black: the interiorThe interior of the compact sport models is styled in sporty black; black also dominates on the air vent sleeves. The instruments feature gray scales and white needles; the pedal caps are made of brushed stainless steel. Many of the controls gleam with an aluminum-look finish. The door sill trims sport S1 logos, and contrasting stitching adorns the leather-covered three-spoke sport steering wheel.

The Audi S1 and S1 Sportback are available at prices starting at 29,950 euros and 30,800 euros, respectively. Their extensive standard equipment can be supplemented by the same features offered in the A1 – up to MMI navigation plus and Audi connect.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.

Further information about the official fuel consumption figures and official, specific CO2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide to fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and electricity consumption of new cars,” which is available free of charge from all sales outlets and from DAT (Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH), Hellmuth-Hirth-Strasse 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen, Germany (http://www.dat.de).